Western States Conference holds mesothelioma fundraiser

The 16th Annual Roger Hamilton Memorial Mesothelioma Fund Raiser took place on June 25 at the Napa Valley Country Club, with 136 golfers in attendance. More than $50,000 was raised at the California golf outing fundraiser to battle mesothelioma this year. Since its inception, the tournament has raised over $1.5 million with all proceeds going directly to support The Mesothelioma Research Foundation of America.

The Mesothelioma Research Foundation of America was formed in 2001 in Southern California by Jerry and Elizabeth Paul, with the support of United Association Representative Jim Kellogg and Dr. Parkash Gill of the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. Their collaborative effort paved the way for California Insulators to become involved in the organization.

2018 Roger Hamilton Golf Fundraiser

Then International Vice President Roger Hamilton, Kellogg and California State Building Trades President Bob Balgenorth hosted the first golf tournament, with all proceeds going to the newly formed foundation. Unfortunately, Hamilton was diagnosed with lung cancer and passed away in December 2002.

The tournament was re-named the Roger Hamilton Memorial in honor of the work Hamilton did to bring awareness to mesothelioma in California. Hamilton’s wife continued his mission and was heavily involved with the tournament for many years. In 2016, the Western States Conference received the opportunity to manage and operate the fundraiser and has successfully hosted the event ever since.

“With gratitude and appreciation for the involvement, I am proud to say that all of the Western States Conference Locals are part of the yearly event,” said Western States Conference International Vice President Doug Gamble.

“While we may never find a cure for mesothelioma, researchers like Dr. Gill are hoping to find a successful treatment that will allow those afflicted by the disease to have a long and productive life well after diagnosis,” said Local 16 Business Manager Melvin Breshears.

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